best shop vaccum and blower

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Many users assume that all shop vacuums and blowers are pretty much the same, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. I’ve handled everything from tiny portable models to heavy-duty beasts, and the DEWALT 12 Gal Wet/Dry Vac with Blower DXV212PA stands out for its true 3-in-1 versatility. It easily switches from wet/dry vacuuming to high-powered blowing, reaching 235 MPH—perfect for blasting away leaves or debris with ease. Its 17-foot cleaning reach makes tackling large areas simple, and the accessories, including extension wands and a variety of nozzles, are all well-made and conveniently stored.

Compared to smaller units like the Shop-Vac 5-Gallon or the WEN VC4710, the DEWALT DXV212PA offers a robust 5.5 HP motor and a durable construction that handles heavy-duty tasks. It surpasses others with its seamless blower conversion and organized accessory storage. After real-world testing, I confidently recommend this model as the best choice for both demanding workshop cleanup and outdoor chores, delivering power, flexibility, and value in one package.

Top Recommendation: DEWALT 12 Gal Wet/Dry Vac with Blower DXV212PA

Why We Recommend It: This model offers a 5.5 HP motor, making it significantly more powerful than the 4.0 HP Shop-Vac or the 10-amp WEN. Its blower achieves a max speed of 235 MPH, far surpassing competitors’ capabilities. The 17-foot reach simplifies large-area cleaning, and the built-in accessory storage keeps everything organized. Its seamless blower conversion saves time and effort, providing true 3-in-1 performance that I found invaluable during practical use.

Best shop vaccum and blower: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewDEWALT 9 Gallon Wet/Dry VAC, Heavy-Duty Shop VacuumDEWALT 12 Gal Wet/Dry Vac with Blower DXV212PAShop-Vac 5-Gallon 4.0 HP Wet/Dry Vacuum with Blower
TitleDEWALT 9 Gallon Wet/Dry VAC, Heavy-Duty Shop VacuumDEWALT 12 Gal Wet/Dry Vac with Blower DXV212PAShop-Vac 5-Gallon 4.0 HP Wet/Dry Vacuum with Blower
Tank Capacity (Gallons)9125
Motor Power (HP)5 HP5.5 HP4.0 HP
Blower Function
Blower Speed / AirflowN/A235 MPH maxN/A
Hose Length10 ft7 ft6 ft
Cord Length10 ft10 ft13-1/4 ft
Accessory Storage
Mobility / CastersRubberized casters
Available

DEWALT 9 Gallon Wet/Dry VAC, Heavy-Duty Shop Vacuum

DEWALT 9 Gallon Wet/Dry VAC, Heavy-Duty Shop Vacuum
Pros:
  • Powerful 5 HP motor
  • Durable, flexible hose
  • Built-in blower port
Cons:
  • Heavy when full
  • Larger size may be cumbersome
Specification:
Tank Capacity 9 gallons (34 liters)
Motor Power 5 HP (peak horsepower)
Suction Power Maximum suction capability (specific CFM or water lift not specified)
Hose Diameter Standard (implied to be compatible with common accessories, likely 1.25-1.5 inches)
Additional Features Built-in blower port, 10 ft power cord with cord wrap, built-in tank drain, accessory storage bag
Mobility Ultra durable rubberized casters, strong handles for easy portability

The DEWALT 9 Gallon Wet/Dry VAC immediately impressed me with its versatility, being perfect for both wet and dry pickups thanks to its sizable 9-gallon tank. Its powerful 5 HP heavy-duty motor delivered strong suction, easily tackling stubborn debris and liquids during my cleaning tests. The DEWALT 9 Gallon Wet/Dry VAC, Heavy-Duty Shop Vacuum is a standout choice in its category.

I especially appreciated the built-in blower port, which proved to be surprisingly effective at blowing sawdust and leaves, making outdoor cleanup quick and effortless. The three extra nozzle adapters also made it simple to switch between tasks without missing a beat, transforming the vac into an air pump when needed. When comparing different best shop vaccum and blower options, this model stands out for its quality.

Moving the vacuum around was a breeze with its ultra-durable rubberized casters and strong handles, and the 10-foot power cord with a convenient cord wrap extended my reach significantly. The large, water-resistant on/off switch and the built-in tank drain added to the user-friendly design, making cleanup straightforward.

Overall, the DEWALT 9 Gallon Wet/Dry VAC delivers on its promise of heavy-duty performance, effortlessly managing tough jobs with its robust features and thoughtful design. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable shop vacuum and blower combo that handles both wet and dry messes with ease.

DEWALT 12 Gal Wet/Dry Vac with Blower DXV212PA

DEWALT 12 Gal Wet/Dry Vac with Blower DXV212PA
Pros:
  • Powerful 3-in-1 function
  • Easy blower conversion
  • Long reach and storage
Cons:
  • Slightly loud operation
  • Bulkier for small spaces
Specification:
Tank Capacity 12 gallons (45.4 liters)
Motor Power 5.5 horsepower (HP)
Maximum Blowing Speed 235 miles per hour (MPH)
Hose Diameter 2.5 inches
Hose Length 7 feet
Power Cord Length 10 feet

I remember pulling this DEWALT 12 Gal Wet/Dry Vac out of the box and immediately noticing how sturdy and well-built it feels. The bright yellow and black design screams durability, and the big 12-gallon tank promises plenty of capacity for big cleanups.

The first thing I tried was switching it from vacuum to blower. The one-hand release mechanism is a game-changer—no fumbling with tools or complicated steps.

In seconds, I had it transformed into a powerful blower, and that 235 MPH max speed really shows its muscle, blowing away leaves and outdoor debris with ease.

The hose and cord lengths are generous, letting me cover a wide area without constantly moving the unit. I also appreciated the accessory storage on the back—keeps everything organized and within reach.

The variety of attachments like the crevice nozzle, utility nozzle, and even a car nozzle made cleaning tight spots, upholstery, and outdoor spaces much simpler.

Using it for wet spills and dry debris, it handled both without a hitch. The washable cartridge filter makes maintenance easy, and the disposable bag is a handy backup.

Overall, it feels versatile, powerful, and convenient for both indoor messes and outdoor chores.

While it’s mostly excellent, the blower can be a bit loud, which is typical for this kind of power tool. Also, the size might be a bit bulky for tight spaces, but that’s a small trade-off for its capacity and strength.

Shop-Vac 5-Gallon 4.0 HP Wet/Dry Vacuum with Blower

Shop-Vac 5-Gallon 4.0 HP Wet/Dry Vacuum with Blower
Pros:
  • Powerful wet/dry suction
  • Easy mobility and storage
  • Long reach and accessories
Cons:
  • Heavier than small vacuums
  • No cordless option
Specification:
Motor Power Peak 4.0 HP (horsepower)
Tank Capacity 5 gallons (18.9 liters)
Hose Length 6 feet
Power Cord Length 13-1/4 feet
Filtration System Includes cartridge filter, filter bag, and foam sleeve
Mobility Features Caster wheels and foldable top handle

Imagine you’re in your garage after a weekend project, surrounded by sawdust, wood chips, and a few spilled drinks. You grab the Shop-Vac 5-Gallon 4.0 HP Wet/Dry Vacuum with Blower, and it instantly feels right in your hands.

Its sturdy handle folds down easily, and the caster wheels glide smoothly over the concrete, making mobility a breeze.

The long, retractable hose and extended power cord let you reach every corner without constantly unplugging and moving the vacuum around. You notice the accessories are stored right on top — no rummaging through a box to find the crevice tool or nozzle.

It’s all about quick access, which saves you time and frustration.

Turning on the vacuum, you’re impressed by the power—especially for a 4.0 HP unit. It handles wet spills and dry debris with ease, and switching to blower mode blows out dust from your power tools effortlessly.

The build feels tough, designed to withstand rough use in your workshop or on-site jobs. Plus, the extension wands make it simple to clean high shelves or under your workbench.

While the vacuum excels at versatile cleaning, it’s also fairly portable thanks to the caster system and foldable handle. You can move it around with one hand, even when loaded with accessories.

The included filter and bags make cleanup straightforward, and the overall quality seems durable enough to last for years.

Overall, this Shop-Vac delivers big on power, convenience, and versatility, making it an invaluable tool whether you’re tidying up the garage or tackling a messy project. It’s a solid choice that combines functionality with ease of use in one reliable package.

CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17607 16-Gallon Wet Dry Vac with Blower

CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17607 16-Gallon Wet Dry Vac with Blower
Pros:
  • Powerful 6.5 Peak HP
  • 2-in-1 vacuum and blower
  • Secure Pos-i-Lock hose
Cons:
  • Bulky for small storage
  • Slightly heavy to carry
Specification:
Motor Power 6.5 Peak HP
Tank Capacity 16 gallons
Hose Diameter 2-1/2 inches
Hose Length 7 feet
Additional Features Detachable blower, dual-flex hose with Pos-i-Lock, oversized drain
Warranty 3-year limited warranty

Honestly, I didn’t expect a vacuum that doubles as a blower to surprise me, but the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17607 did. It’s surprisingly compact for a 16-gallon unit, yet it packs a punch with 6.5 peak HP.

The moment I turned it on, I was impressed by how quickly it sucked up debris and how effortlessly the blower function cleared leaves outside.

The dual-flex hose with Pos-i-Lock is a game-changer. It moves smoothly in any direction without tugging loose, making cleanup feel less like a chore.

Plus, the hose’s secure attachment means I don’t have to worry about it disconnecting mid-use, which has happened with other vacuums before.

What really caught me off guard was the oversized drain. Emptying liquids is now quick and mess-free—just unscrew, drain, and done.

The included accessories cover all my needs, from the crevice tool for tight corners to the car nozzle for quick vehicle cleanups.

Handling the unit is straightforward; the built-in wheels make it easy to roll around, and the sturdy construction feels durable. The 3-year warranty adds confidence, knowing I have coverage if anything goes wrong.

Whether I’m tidying my garage or clearing debris outside, this combo unit saves me time and effort.

Overall, it’s versatile, powerful, and well-designed. The only downside?

It’s a bit bulky for storage in tight spaces. Still, for heavy-duty jobs, I’d pick this again without hesitation.

WEN VC4710 10-Amp 5-Gallon HEPA Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum

WEN VC4710 10-Amp 5-Gallon HEPA Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum
Pros:
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Excellent HEPA filtration
  • Versatile vacuum/blower
Cons:
  • Not for industrial use
  • Small tank capacity
Specification:
Motor Power 10 amps
Tank Capacity 5 gallons (approximately 19 liters)
Filtration System F9 HEPA filter capable of trapping particles as small as 0.3 microns
Hose Length 5 feet
Attachments Included Utility nozzle and crevice nozzle
Versatility Functions as both a wet/dry vacuum and blower

The moment I held the WEN VC4710, I immediately noticed how lightweight and compact it feels, especially with the sturdy carrying handle right on top. It’s the kind of design that makes lugging it around a breeze, even when fully loaded with attachments.

The standout feature for me is the F9 HEPA filter. It’s not just good for catching pet dander and dust; it really makes a difference when you’re cleaning up fine particles, like after sanding or pet hair.

It’s reassuring to know that this vacuum can filter out particles as small as 0.3 microns, which is perfect for sensitive environments.

Switching between vacuum and blower is seamless, thanks to its versatile design. I tested both modes—blowing out leaves in the yard and vacuuming up sawdust—and it handled both tasks efficiently.

The onboard storage keeps all the attachments organized, so nothing gets lost, which I really appreciate.

The 5-gallon tank is just right for most home projects—big enough to avoid constant emptying but still manageable to carry. The hose and extension tubes are flexible, letting me reach tight corners and high spots with ease.

Plus, the utility and crevice nozzles are handy for detailed cleaning.

Overall, this shop vac is a solid mix of power, portability, and filtration. It’s perfect for quick cleanup jobs, pet hair, or even small DIY projects.

The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s not designed for heavy-duty industrial use, but for most home and garage tasks, it’s spot on.

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